This collection consists of two binders of material related to the Planetary Atmosphere Experiments Test (PAET) Project. The
first, which was compiled by PAET Project Manager David E. Reese, primarily contains logistical documents for the flight,
including pre-flight test data sheets and reliability and quality assurance reports. The second contains photographs detailing
the PAET vehicle and payload instruments.

Background

By 1970, NASA had established a planetary exploration program for future missions to Mars, Venus, Saturn and Jupiter. One
of the primary objectives of these interplanetary missions was to gain a better understanding of atmospheric properties on
other planets, but the methods and instrumentation necessary to achieve this end had to first be tested. The idea that an
entry probe could be used to determine the structure and characteristics of a planet's atmosphere was put forth by Ames planetary
scientist Alvin Seiff. The PAET project was the first time Seiff's conception of probe technology was tested.

Extent

Number of containers: 1
Volume: .35 cubic feet

Restrictions

Copyright does not apply to United States government records. For non-government
material, researcher must contact the original creator.